Enhancing the role of gender focal persons in gender mainstreaming and women empowerment in KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract

This dissertation critically explores the roles of Gender Focal Persons (GFPs) in implementing gender mainstreaming and promoting women’s empowerment in the district municipalities of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The investigation is situated within the context of persistent gender inequalities and the strategic deployment of GFPs as agents of change in the regional government's policy framework. The study is grounded in gender mainstreaming, which provides a nuanced understanding of the socio-cultural and political dynamics influencing gender relations in the region. Using a qualitative methodology, the research engaged with GFPs, their supervisors, and representatives from civil society across eleven district municipalities. The study captures a comprehensive view of the challenges and impacts associated with the GFPs' roles through interviews and focus group discussions. This methodological approach allows a deep exploration of the lived experiences and perceptions of those directly involved in gender mainstreaming processes.

The findings reveal that GFPs are pivotal in advocating for and implementing gender-sensitive policies and practices. However, they encounter significant obstacles, including political interference, resource constraints, administrative instability, and prevailing societal attitudes and stigma towards gender issues. These challenges are exacerbated by insufficient training and support for GFPs, hindering their effectiveness and the sustainability of gender mainstreaming efforts. Despite these hurdles, GFPs have made notable impacts within their communities, particularly in enhancing awareness and fostering environments that support women's empowerment and gender equality. The study underscores the critical role of supportive policies and legislation in enabling GFPs to perform their roles more effectively. Furthermore, it highlights the need for a strengthened policy framework that can better facilitate the operationalization of gender mainstreaming at the grassroots level, thereby providing practical guidance for policymakers and practitioners.

The dissertation concludes with a set of recommendations aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of GFPs. These include providing targeted training in economic empowerment, gender sensitization, leadership, advocacy, and policy navigation skills. Additionally, it calls for increased resource allocation, more excellent administrative support, and more intensive community engagement to combat stigma and foster a more inclusive society. Overall, the research contributes to the broader discourse on gender mainstreaming and women’s empowerment by providing empirical insights into the challenges and successes of GFPs in KwaZulu-Natal. It offers valuable lessons and strategic directions for policymakers, practitioners, and advocates working towards gender equality and women’s empowerment in similar contexts. Through its detailed examination and strategic recommendations, this study not only enriches the academic and practical understanding of gender mainstreaming but also serves as a crucial resource for enhancing the operational effectiveness of GFPs in promoting gender equality and empowering women at the municipal level.